Petrali can be traced back to the ancient Roman times, where the tradition has been passed down from generation to generation. The process of preparing the recipe has always been a labor of love, with the women of the family coming together to combine their efforts in making these delicious biscuits. Since the ingredients were often scarce and expensive, the making of the Petrali was reserved exclusively for special occasions and festive times, especially Christmas.
There are various ways to make Petrali, but the traditional recipe calls for flour, sugar, eggs, almonds, lemon, cinnamon, and white wine. The ingredients are mixed together to make the dough, which is then rolled into small balls and flattened into a disk shape. The biscuits are then baked in the oven until they become lightly golden. The biscuits are usually cooled and then served with a dusting of powdered sugar on top.
The Petrali have a delicate and aromatic taste, thanks to the use of cinnamon and lemon, which combine with the sweetness of sugar, creating a unique flavor that is perfect for the holiday season. The crunchy texture of the almonds adds a nice contrast to the dough that is soft and buttery, making them a wonderful treat to have with family and friends.
The tradition of Sweet Calabrian Christmas Petrali is still alive and well in today’s modern world, and it continues to bring families together as they gather around to knead the dough and tell stories. It is also a great way to keep tradition alive and pass on the recipe to future generations.
In conclusion, the Sweet Calabrian Christmas Petrali is a beloved Italian tradition that warms the hearts of everyone who is lucky enough to enjoy them. They are the perfect treat for the holiday season, and they make a great gift for family and friends. So, next Christmas, why not try making some Petrali yourself, and share in the warmth and love of this wonderful Italian tradition?